Migraine Must Haves

I used to get migraines every so often and I would just go in a dark room, sleep for a few hours, and wake up feeling good as new.  Unfortunately over the last few months my migraines have become a frequent, almost daily, occurrence.  Since I've been getting them so often I have a few essentials that make getting through a migraine (slightly) more bearable.  A few of these are recommendations from my (new) migraine doctor (who I love!) and some of them are just things that make me more comfortable.  I know that migraines are not uncommon -  I even have a few friends who suffer from them, so I thought that I would share my Migraine Must Haves for anyone else who's riding the migraine struggle bus with me.

1. Earplugs

Sound doesn't always bother my migraines, but when it does earplugs are a necessity to block out noise.  I also like to wear them when I'm trying to "sleep off" a migraine so I don't get woken up by anything and can get as much peaceful sleep as I need to feel better.  I've tried a lot of different brands of earplugs (thanks to five years living on a college campus) and the Mack's brand is my favorite.

2. Eye mask

I'm pretty much always sensitive to light when I have a migraine so a good eye mask can be super helpful.  My room has great natural light, which is amazing when I don't have a headache, but when I do it's the worst thing ever until I cover my eyes.  I haven't tried this sleep mask yet, but I hear that they're supposed to be the best so I really want to get one!

3. Ice mask

Usually when I get a migraine the number one thing I want is ice on my face and head.  I'm not sure if this is something everyone likes, but if you do an ice face mask like this one is a must.  The first really, really bad migraine I had (that wouldn't go away) my sister brought one of these to my apartment at school and it's been a lifesaver ever since!

4. Medication

At first I was trying to deal with the migraines on my own, but the medication my doctor gave me really helps!  I've also heard good things about a few over the counter medications, like Excedrin Migraine, but I can't take them because of other health problems I have.  I am not a huge fan of taking medication (hence me trying to deal with the migraines on my own), however my Dad always tells me you don't get a medal for being in pain so you might as well take the medication, and I have to admit that he's right.

5. Facial spray

This one might seem kind of silly, but I love spritzing my face when I have a migraine because it feels so refreshing.  I usually leave it by the bathroom sink and use it when I get up to go to the bathroom.  It may just be me, but I find it soothing when I have a headache!

6. Sorbet

Whenever I get a migraine I crave something cold and sweet.  I usually want ice cream, but dairy makes me sick to my stomach (which I definitely don't want!) so I love having sorbet.  I'm kind of obsessed with the Roman Raspberry Sorbetto from Talenti.  Migraine or no migraine it is so good and only has few ingredients - which is something I love!  Sorbet also has way less calories than ice cream, which makes it a healthier option and makes me feel way less guilty when I eat as much as I want (aka almost the entire thing!).

7. Vitamins

The doctor I've been going to for migraines is awesome because he's all about using non medication remedies for headaches when you can.  He gave me a list of foods that are known to cause migraines and another list of vitamins that are known to help with migraines.  Since I don't love taking medication (see #4) I do love having these alternatives!  He has me taking CoQ10, Fish Oil, Magnesium, and Vitamin B2.*

*I am (obviously) not a doctor so make sure to check with your (real) doctor before adding any vitamins or supplements to your regimen!

8. Caffeine

I found this surprising, but caffeine is actually proven to help migraines.  I have a bit of a problem with this one because I hate coffee and tea! I've been trying to drink Mexican Coke when I get a migraine even though it doesn't have as much caffeine as coffee or tea.  Yesterday I picked up a powdered green tea though that you add to a smoothie or flavored drink and I am looking forward to giving that a try!

9. Cold water

In case you haven't figured it out I want all things cold when I have a migraine.  It's always important to stay hydrated, but I think it's especially important to drink a lot when you have a headache.  I recommend keeping lots of cold water on hand for when you get a migraine!

I hope that my essentials can be helpful for my fellow migraine sufferers!  Do you like anything else when you have a migraine that I haven't mentioned?  Please leave any and all tips below, I would love to hear them!

  

                

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Today I'm linking up with #HowISummer, Hello Monday, Let It Shine, Weekending, and MIMM.